I've read reviews for both machines and still can't decide. I have an offer to buy 2nd hand 3160qdc in exellent condition while also was thinking of purchasing dc4030 brand new (can't find a used one). Both cost about the same.

The reviews of 3160qdc scared me. Yet i'm not sure if i will really like the dc 4030.

Depending on what type of use...the 3160 is under 13 lbs. I feel those types of machine are meant for back-ups/class/travel machines. Definitely the 3160 has desirable features with the nifty thread-cutter and start/stop button. It sounds as if you are really "sold" on either one as yet. Have you shopped any dealers?

Glad you read the reviews on the 3160. I tried one and it seemed more of a fancy class/backup machine but I'm sure there are owners who are perfectly happy with them.
The DC4030 has gained a reputation as a workhorse sort of machine...sturdy and has all your basic stitches.

Both models are user-friendly and you can adjust the foot pressure on both, too.

Thank you for your replies.
I prefer one that is more sturdy, and will give less trouble in the future. The 3160 is from a private seller so i'm limited with time to decide. I messaged the seller and told her to not put it on hold for me. Meanwhile, i hope i can pay a visit to a local dealer asap to see the dc4030 and maybe i can compare it with the 3160 too and hear their opinion about 3160.

While my post title is about these two sewing machines. I am still open for other models that i might like more. I like the computerised ones because it has more fancy stitches that i can try compared to my old brother ls2160. However, i'm fine with a manual one too.

As i have a toddler that always need my attention, i always have to turn off the sewing machine in the middle of the work to attend her. Will these models remember the last stitch setting when i turn them back on?
Or should i keep searching? My budget is no more than $550.

Not familiar with the DC4030, but I've had my 3160 for almost 18 months. I average sewing 5 days/week. I have never had a problem. It came with many standard feet and a big extension table that I use all the time. My only complaint is that the lighting is just fair.
Good luck with your decision.

I don't know anything about the 3160qdc. It does have a lot of nice features and not too heavy to lift.

The DC 4030 has a large foot control with retractable cord (easy to store when done). How nice is that!? It has a face plate that opens! This is a very nice and rare feature. One dealer didn't even know about it; she said none of her machines had that feature. It would make it easy to clean out lint and dust or change the light bulb. The machine is quiet and smooth. One drawback is that it doesn't have very many stitches although it has several one-step buttonholes. I did not try out that feature so I can't say about the quality. The machine resets to its default setting when turned off.

I think many computerized entry level machines reset to a default setting. Sometimes it's nice when you want 'to start over'. Some upper end machines have a memory of the last setting used. Question: do they have a 'restore to default' button?

A really good feature of the 4030 is that you can adjust the width and density of all 6 buttonhole styles — a feature that isn't available on most mid-to-low-end machines. If you make clothing, this machine really has all you need.

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